Loading, please wait...
LOT 0991
Roman Bronze Sleeping Dog Statuette
3RD-4TH CENTURY A.D.
7/8 in. (6.04 grams, 23.7 mm).
Modelled in the round with the head resting on the extended forepaws. [No Reserve]
ProvenanceFrom the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
CONDITIONTimeLine Auctions follows a vetting process to ensure the authenticity and legality of all items, reinforcing our commitment to integrity and responsible trading. Each antiquity, antique, and coin lot undergoes thorough examination by a vetting committee of at least ten external specialists, professional trade association members, scientists, and archaeologists: Our Vetting Process
AUCTIONS:
TimeLine is a leading auction house specialising in antiquities, ancient art, collectables, natural history, coins, medals, and books. Our auctions offer museums, collectors, historians, and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire unique and historically significant pieces.
-
Roman Terracotta Bullae, Tesserae or Token Group
3rd century B.C.-1st century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £72
A mixed group of ceramic bullae, tesserae or theatre tokens bearing low-relief motifs, mainly consisting of profile busts of deities. 31 grams total, 14-23 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s.
The term 'tessera' was used in Roman times to convey the Greek term σύμβολον (token). Small tiles are known as tokens, often shaped like coins, made of metal (copper, lead, iron), clay, bone, wood, or glass, stamped as well as engraved. The tokens, however, are not exclusively coin-shaped, as the Latin term 'tessera' suggests by etymologically referring to a square or at least a four-sided shape and confirmed in several cases by material remains of the past. Tokens and tesserae seem to have been used both in Athens and Rome for the distribution of goods. According to written sources, the term token is identified with credentials of the official authorities. They have also been interpreted as tokens of identity, as entrance tickets to theatre performances, tribunals or assemblies of citizens, archival material of seal engraving, as pawns in games, Charon’s obols and even as amulets. -
Roman Dark Green Gemstone with Erotic Scene
2nd-3rd century A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £156
With intaglio nude figures, a herm of Priapus with an erect phallus adorned by a female worshipper with a wreath; supplied with a museum-quality impression. 0.52 grams, 13.13 mm
From the private collection of a European gentleman (1942-2024), formed since the 1970s. -
Framed Roman Black Stone Spindle Whorl
Circa 200 A.D.Sold for (Inc. bp): £26
Conical body with a circular opening; set in a glazed wooden display frame. 114 grams total, 93 x 94 mm including frame
Acquired from Ancient Art Shop, Berkshire, UK. From the collection of a Nottingham, UK, collector, established from the early 2000s. Accompanied by the original Ancient Art Shop certificate of authenticity.